condemned in the strongest terms the recent wave of bombings that have targeted civilians launched by the assad regime. >>> pope benedict xvi called for prayers for syrians and others in the middle east living in conflict. his christmas message opened with a traditional latin wish for peace, especially to those who live and suffer in places where christ lived. the pope expressed hope that people caught up in the high tech world find room in their hearts for god. >>> thousands of christian pilgrims celebrated mass in bethlehem this morning, the town where it is believed christ was born. the holiday was especially joyous on the west bank after the united nations recognized palestine as an independent state. >>> here in the u.s., it is a day for worship, for exchanging gifts, getting together with family and friends and planning a return to the malls tomorrow. shoppers will find deep discounts at stores and online because the pre-christmas retail numbers were a little disappointing this time around. the discounts could be as much as 80%, as merchants try to clear inventory from their shelves. you